How to choose the length of a snowboard?
It's worth choosing a snowboard just as carefully as we do traditional skis. The profile of the snowboard should be tailored to our expectations, skills, and, above all, height and weight.
How to choose a snowboard? What to consider?
Snowboards are currently available in a wide variety of varieties. The starting point, however, is always the board's size. The key factor is its length, which should be perfectly tailored to the individual user's needs. Choosing a snowboard should also consider its width and finish. Besides the skier's weight and height, skill level, preferred technique, and expectations for what they will be doing on the board will also be important. Symmetrical boards are suitable for freestyle, but not necessarily for exploring untouched terrain. A properly chosen snowboard is also essential for learning to ride. Just as snowboarding gloves , skijackets , and pants must fit perfectly, the board's flex, shape, length, and finish must also suit the riding style.
Snowboard - optimal length
If you want to know which snowboard to choose, start with your optimal length. The most versatile boards for beginner riders should be chin-high. If you want more precise information, you can assume that:
- in the case of men, with a weight of 50-60 kilograms, the board should be 10 cm shorter than the rider's height, with each additional 10 kg of weight lengthening the board by approximately 4 cm;
- in the case of women, with a weight of 50-60 kilograms, the board should be 15-12 cm shorter than the rider's height, each additional 10 kg of weight lengthens the board by about 2 cm.
The manufacturer will always be able to help, as they usually provide a detailed table of recommended board lengths for specific heights and weights on their websites, as well as in the product description. It's worth following this advice, as the better the board size, the better your riding experience will be.
Board length and riding technique
It's worth remembering, however, that riding style will also play a role. Generally, riders looking for a snowpark board with a jibb-oriented design should choose boards slightly shorter than chin-length. This type of board is also good for beginners. A slightly shorter length will make the board easier to maneuver and increase its flex response.
Freeride boards, as well as those for snowpark riding, kicking, and halfpipe riding, should be slightly longer than chin height. This will improve approach and landing. This solution also works well for technical downhill riding.
How to determine the width of a snowboard?
The width of the board is primarily chosen based on the size of your feet. The key is to ensure that neither your heels nor your toes protrude beyond the board. Before you hit the snow with your board, remember to check the fit of the board in your boots and bindings. This is a slightly different situation than with traditional boots, and it's important to remember this. It's also worth investing in ski pants that fit properly around your boots, ensuring greater comfort.
Remember that snowboards, regardless of their intended use, are produced in standard and wide versions. It's most often assumed that models marked "W" are primarily intended for people with feet size 45 and above. However, you should consider a wide board whenever your feet extend about 4-5 cm beyond the sides. Such a board is artificially widened, providing greater comfort for those with larger feet. Do you need a W? There's a simple test: if you can touch the snow with the toe or heel of your boot while riding, you definitely can.
What else to consider?
Snowboard boots, jacket, pants – all of these must be perfectly suited to your needs. The same should apply to your board. You have a wide selection to choose from, and board length isn't the only factor to consider. There are, of course, universal boards, but for technical riding, your first snowboard will look different than one designed for reaching maximum speed on a specially prepared trail. You'll ride differently in deep powder, and you'll need different things for performing tricks. It's worth remembering this.
